Maruti Suzuki India has taken a major leap forward in passenger safety. Starting July 16, 2025, the automaker will offer six airbags as standard across all variants of its popular Ertiga and Baleno models. That’s right – whether you pick the base model or the top-end variant, you’re now better protected right from the start.
Upgrade
Previously, both these models came with only dual airbags as standard. If you wanted the extra airbags, you had to opt for higher trims, which meant shelling out more. With this latest update, Maruti is leveling the playing field, ensuring better safety for every buyer, regardless of budget.
What’s the big deal with six airbags? Well, in the unfortunate event of a collision, having airbags for both the front and side occupants can drastically reduce the risk of serious injuries. It’s a small upgrade with potentially life-saving outcomes.
Price
Now, here comes the flip side – the price hike. Maruti Suzuki has announced a revision in ex-showroom prices to offset the added safety tech. The Ertiga will see a hike of around 1.4 percent on average, while the Baleno will become costlier by about 0.5 percent.
Let’s break it down with a simple estimate. Say the Ertiga was priced at ₹10 lakh – that would now go up to ₹10.14 lakh. The Baleno, priced at ₹8 lakh, might now cost ₹8.04 lakh. These are not drastic changes, but it’s worth noting if you’re planning a purchase soon.
Estimated Price Impact Table
| Model | Previous Price (₹) | New Price Estimate (₹) | % Hike |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ertiga | 10,00,000 | 10,14,000 | 1.4% |
| Baleno | 8,00,000 | 8,04,000 | 0.5% |
Safety
So, why this sudden push for safety? Maruti Suzuki is aligning its offerings with rising customer expectations and upcoming safety regulations. Six airbags used to be a premium feature, often limited to top-end cars. But with road safety becoming a more pressing issue, carmakers are now stepping up.
This move could also put pressure on rival brands to up their safety game, especially in the mass-market hatchback and MPV segments where Maruti rules the charts.
Engines
Now, if you were expecting other changes in the Ertiga or Baleno, don’t hold your breath. Both cars continue with their existing powertrain setups. The Ertiga comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and offers both mild-hybrid and CNG options. Meanwhile, the Baleno is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine, also available with a factory-fitted CNG kit.
So under the hood, it’s business as usual. That’s actually a smart move – why fix what isn’t broken?
Choices
For buyers, this upgrade brings real value. If you were sitting on the fence, wondering whether to go for a base model or splurge on a higher variant just for safety features, your decision just got easier. Even the entry-level trims now offer the same level of safety as the top ones – at a more affordable rate.
Maruti’s move makes a strong statement: safety isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.
All in all, this update may seem small on the surface, but it’s a big deal for Indian roads and Indian families. It’s a step in the right direction, making cars safer and smarter without a complete overhaul.
FAQs
When will the airbag update be effective?
From July 16, 2025, across all Ertiga and Baleno variants.
Which Maruti models get 6 airbags now?
Ertiga and Baleno now come with six airbags standard.
Is there a price increase with this update?
Yes, Ertiga by 1.4% and Baleno by 0.5%.
Any engine changes in Ertiga or Baleno?
No changes. Same petrol and CNG options continue.
Why is Maruti adding six airbags?
To boost safety and meet rising safety expectations.
